Crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside — these broccoli fritters are a delicious and fun way to enjoy vegetables. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or lunchbox treat, they’re loaded with melty cheese and golden bites of broccoli goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Fritters are the kind of crowd-pleasing comfort food that makes eating vegetables a true delight. With their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior, these fritters are equally suitable for picky eaters, busy families, or anyone looking for a satisfying vegetarian snack. They require only a handful of simple ingredients and come together quickly in a skillet. Serve them with your favorite dip, pack them into lunchboxes, or enjoy them as a light meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped and lightly steamed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Lightly steam the chopped broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain well and let cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, mozzarella, Parmesan, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a thick batter forms.
3. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
4. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small patties or fritters.
5. Place each fritter into the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm, optionally with dipping sauces such as sour cream, marinara, or ranch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 fritters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend.
• Add Heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheeses: Try sharp cheddar or feta for a bolder flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fragrant boost.
• Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, for a lighter alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture. Fritters can also be frozen and reheated directly from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before chopping and using in the recipe.

Do I need to steam the broccoli first?

Yes, lightly steaming makes it tender enough to incorporate easily and improves texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and cook them in advance. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.

What dip goes well with these fritters?

They pair well with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, sour cream, or a spicy yogurt dip.

Are these fritters kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The cheesy flavor and crispy texture make them appealing to children.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to make them uniform in size?

Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to portion the batter evenly.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can mix in shredded zucchini (squeezed dry), carrots, or corn.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the oven from frozen.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is not too wet, and press the patties firmly when shaping.

Conclusion

Cheesy Broccoli Fritters are a quick, satisfying way to enjoy vegetables in comfort food form. With their golden crust and melty center, they’re ideal for snacking, serving as a side dish, or adding variety to vegetarian meals. Easy to customize and kid-approved, these fritters offer a delicious, no-fuss way to elevate your vegetable routine.

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